Is Morning Breath Preventable?

Is Morning Breath Preventable?

Morning breath is natural. However, this does not mean that it isn’t embarrassing. It can cause you to feel self-conscious when seeing your significant other, family members, or roommates first thing in the morning. Though morning breath is a common occurrence, there are several ways you can prevent or minimize it.

The Cause

Morning breath is caused by bacteria. When bacteria break down food particles, they release foul-smelling chemicals. These chemicals are what make your breath smell. During the day, saliva production helps limit the number of bacteria in your mouth. Overnight, the mouth tends to dry out, creating a breeding ground for bacteria. The bacteria build up throughout the night, which is why your breath may be less than pleasant in the morning.

Oral Hygiene

Proper oral hygiene is essential for helping bad breath, in general. Brush your teeth thoroughly at least twice a day and floss once. Cleaning your tongue whenever you brush your teeth can help eliminate the bacteria residing there. You may also want to consider using a mouthwash that doesn’t contain alcohol. Mouthwash can help kill the bacteria in your mouth, but mouthwashes that contain alcohol can also dry out your mouth.

Hydration

Stay hydrated. The more hydrated you are, the less dry your mouth will get overnight. Consider keeping a glass of water next to your bed, in case you wake up in the middle of the night.

Quit Smoking

Smoking is one of the leading causes of bad breath. Besides all of its other negative effects, smoking also dries out the mouth, creating an environment where bacteria flourish.

Healthy Diet

A healthy diet can help lessen the bacteria in your mouth. Replacing sugary treats with fruits and vegetables can help prevent your teeth from harm.

Even though morning breath is extremely common, it is less than desirable. Following these steps can help you reduce your morning breath. If you have questions or concerns about your oral hygiene, contact us at Jenson Dental today!